When the moment was right, a mighty-armed one respectfully requested, “If it is proper, please speak the next word.” Prahlada, renowned for his wisdom, responded with words that brought together the principles of righteousness and prosperity. He explained that true wealth is that which is acquired without violating righteousness. “Whatever brings benefit in this world and the next, my son, that is the action you must perform. Act in such a way that your fame remains untarnished, O wise one. Let your deeds bring complete contentment to all in our household—elders, kinsmen, virtuous Brahmins, and the very spirit of fame and renown. Through your pure conduct and determined effort, your reputation will shine throughout the world. “Kings,” Prahlada continued, “attain prosperity by steadfast devotion to service. That is why the foremost of the twice-born, learned in the scriptures, perform sacrifices for kings; it is through the smoke of these sacred fires that peace is bestowed upon the ruler. Let the Kshatriyas, O lord of the Daityas, be devoted to their duty of protecting the people. Those whose livelihood is trade or even prostitution should engage in the care of livestock. Let the Shudras, O best of the Asuras, always act according to your command. “In this way, righteousness will flourish, and with its growth, the rise of kings will follow. Your own prosperity increases with the growth of righteousness, and with its decline comes loss.” Hearing these words, Bali, with deep respect, replied to the great sage, “Whatever you command, I shall do.” Thus, Bali, ever devoted to righteousness, governed the three worlds. He sought refuge in Brahma, compelled by his own nature, and with his radiant energy, he illuminated his domain, encompassing both gods and demons. But not all were pleased. “O best of the gods,” it was said, “my very nature has been subdued by the mighty Bali. And not just mine—even yours has been taken by his power. Even the sun has been weakened by Bali’s strength. None but Hari, who is adorned with a thousand heads and a thousand feet, can reclaim from Bali what belongs within the bounds of true righteousness.” Seeing Indra and the other gods dejected, one went to the Vibhitaka grove. There, righteousness stood firm upon four legs, present in all four castes, O Narada. Compassion, charity, kindness, service, and sacrificial acts prevailed throughout the world. Yet, Bali’s power was so great that even the strong Brahman was repeatedly subdued by him. Still, the foremost among men remained anchored in the protection of their people and upheld righteousness. Now, the fortune of the three worlds, the bestower of boons, had come to Bali, lord of the Daityas. A mysterious lady approached and inquired, “Who are you? Tell me your purpose for coming here.” She revealed herself, saying, “O Bali, listen: I have come to you, compelled by force, as a queen. Maghavan has abandoned me; that is why I am here with you.” She described four figures, each adorned in a different color: one in white garments, garlands, and ointments; another in red; a third in yellow, radiant as gold; and the last in blue, with blue garlands and fragrances. The one dressed in white, pure and virtuous, was seated upon an elephant. The one in red, full of passion, rode a horse. The auspicious one in yellow, shining like gold, was seated in a chariot. Thus unfolded the tale of Bali’s reign, the flourishing of righteousness, and the mysterious arrival of fortune herself, each step guided by the principles spoken by Prahlada and witnessed by the gods and the worlds alike.